BEER OF THE MONTH

Saison Dupont Belgian Farmhouse Ale

April 26, 2006|By Jeff Boda

What makes it special: If stuck on a desert island, I would want this beer with me. The flavors go with any season and match up with nearly every food. If you only have one beer in your refrigerator, this should be it.

Flavors: This straw-colored, rustic Belgian beer, known as a saison, pours a gigantic, tightly packed head with fruity, sour notes. More bitter than most Belgian ales, it still is crisp enough for warm weather, but also carries enough body for when it's cool outside. It's slightly soapy at first taste, and then the lavender and honey flavors perk up before the crisp, dry finish. If you can find it on tap, compare the maltier poured version to the (usually) hoppier bottled version.

Where to buy it: About $8 for a 750-milliliter bottle at Sam's Wines & Spirits. Or $5 a 12-ounce draft at the Map Room, 1949 N. Hoyne Ave.